The award is named after former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who was assassinated in 1984.
Introduced by the federal environment ministry, the award is given to two organizations and three individuals who the jury considers to have carried out outstanding work in environmental protection or promoting eco-friendly living.
Bishop Arackal says the nomination is recognition for the Church in India.
“Protecting the environment is a major challenge for all, cutting across religions. Our diocese and Church have introduced several initiatives to educate people about the need for eco-friendly living and organic farming,” the prelate said yesterday.
Kanjirapally diocese is in the southern Indian state of Kerala and most of its Catholics are farmers.Malayalam